Bridging Finance in South Africa
Property transactions rarely settle on the exact day you need the money. Bridging finance advances a portion of funds you are contractually due, so timing between transactions does not stall your plans.
When Bridging Finance Helps
Bridging is used where funds are certain but not yet paid — most often the period between a sale being signed and the transfer registering in the deeds office.
- Sellers awaiting proceeds from a registered sale
- Buyers needing a deposit before their own sale registers
- Estate agents advancing commission before registration
- Bond and equity release proceeds awaiting payout
How Bridging Is Structured
The advance is repaid directly from the transaction proceeds at registration. Costs are charged for the period the funds are outstanding, so the shorter the bridge, the lower the cost.
- Repaid automatically from registration proceeds
- Priced for the period funds are advanced
- Advance is a portion of the confirmed net proceeds
- Conveyancer confirmation is required
Getting It Right
Bridging works when the underlying transaction is sound and the registration timeline is realistic. Your Gateway specialist reviews both before you commit.
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What is bridging finance?
Bridging finance is short-term funding that advances money you are contractually due from a property transaction before registration, repaid from the proceeds at registration.
Who can use property bridging finance?
Sellers, buyers and estate agents in a registered or signed transaction where a conveyancer can confirm the expected proceeds.
How long does bridging finance last?
Typically a few weeks to a few months — only until the transaction registers and the proceeds are paid over.